Motorcyclists need training, license

The State Patrol is reminding people to get trained and licensed before getting onto a motorcycle.

Last year, 83 motorcyclists died in Wisconsin traffic crashes and nearly 2,000 were injured. Sgt. Travis Wanless says it’s a major safety issue in the state. “About 35 percent of our motorcycle fatalities from 2003 to 2012 involve riders who have not completed either a safety training course or a skills test which they are required to do to obtain a motorcycle license.”

Wanless says it’s not enough to just have a driver’s license. “They need to have a class M motorcycle operation endorsement on their drivers license in order to operate their motorcycle legally.” Riders who do not have a valid motorcycle license may receive a citation costing $200 per violation. That course requires you to complete a similar course like you take to get your standard license.

You can learn more about the rider safety courses and getting that license online.